The trial phase of the extraordinary court martial of four Crusader soldiers had just ended. They were convicted of the torture of the civilian brother and rape of the two sisters of Marine Sergeant Ames – who died by execution for ‘blasphemy’ by spacing him. (See: 14. There’s Trouble Afoot, Sir!) The Tribunal judges were, Marine Commandant Kingsley, Navy CO ArcGeneral Hastings, Crusader CO Shappa Durant, and High Chancellor Hayes. They had agreed unanimously that the accused were guilty of the charges brought against them. Now they had to decide upon the punishment. We join the four judges in the comfortable office of High Chancellor Hayes.
“The Gods are pleased, I’m sure, that we four agreed unanimously on the guilty verdict.” Hayes eyed each of his companions in turn. “And now, we need to return a just sentence so we can put this ugly chapter to bed. Shappa, what say you?” Continue reading “24. A Daring Proposal!”
Fiora Books by John Fioravanti 